Pedal the Gap FAQ
Pedal the Gap FAQ:
Welcome to Pedal the Gap
Nestled where Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia meet, Cumberland Gap has been a gateway to adventure for centuries. Once traveled by Native Americans, pioneers, and settlers, the historic Cumberland Gap now welcomes cyclists seeking one of the most scenic and challenging rides in the Appalachian Mountains.
Pedal the Gap offers riders the opportunity to experience winding mountain roads, the beauty of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, charming small-town hospitality, and unforgettable views from the Pinnacle Overlook. Whether you're tackling the Pinnacle Challenge, enjoying one of the longer road routes, or riding with family and friends, we're excited to have you join us for this inaugural event.
Where should I park on event day?
The recommended parking location is the Daniel Boone National Park Service Parking Lot on SR-58. Public restrooms are available at this location, and riders can easily bike to the starting line.
Additional parking options in Cumberland Gap include:
Iron Furnace Parking Lot (NPS)
Community Parking Lot – 704 Brooklyn Street
Limited street parking is available downtown
Please follow all posted parking regulations and avoid blocking driveways or access points.
When and where is registration and packet pickup?
Your packet includes:
Event bib
Event T-shirt
Course description
Swag bag
Packet Pickup
Thursday
4:00-6:00
Knoxville
Quest Health & Performance
5401 Kingston Pike #350
Friday
5:00–7:00 p.m.
Little Congress Bicycle Museum
807 Llewelyn Street #1, Cumberland Gap, TN
Saturday (Event Day)
Beginning at 6:30 a.m.
Angelo's in the Gap
527 Colwyn Street, Cumberland Gap, TN
What time do the rides begin?
Pinnacle Challenge
7:00 a.m. start
Long Routes
7:45 a.m. start
Shorter Routes
8:30 a.m. start
Please arrive early to allow time for parking, packet pickup, and rider announcements.
What should I know about the Tunnel and Pinnacle Ride?
The Pinnacle route includes passage through the Cumberland Gap Tunnel and requires an escorted group ride.
Here's how it works:
Riders will depart from the Daniel Boone Parking Lot.
An escort will lead cyclists along SR-58 and through the Cumberland Gap Tunnel.
The escort continues to the National Park Service Visitor Center parking area, which serves as Aid Station #1.
At Aid Station #1, the escorted portion ends and riders begin the climb to Pinnacle Overlook.
Please remember:
You will be riding within Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
Follow all "Share the Road" practices.
Obey traffic laws and park regulations.
Ride courteously and safely.
After descending from the Pinnacle, riders will regroup at Aid Station #1 and be escorted back through the tunnel.
Miss the escort?
A shuttle vehicle will be available to transport you and your bicycle back to the Daniel Boone Parking Lot, where you may join the long or short route options.
How is the course marked?
All PTG routes are marked predominantly with WHITE turn markings
The outer out-and-back section of the 62/77 routes is marked in YELLOW
The two "shortcut" turns on the 25/40 routes are marked in BLUE.
All routes will return to WHITE marks after the routes separate at the colored mark
"STRAIGHT" confirmation marks will be provided approximately every mile.
All turns will have the route mileage clearly written on the road.
Where are the aid stations?
There are three aid stations located along the course.
Each station will provide:
Water
Fruit
Restroom Availability
Aid Station #1 – Restrooms available
Aid Station #2 – Portable restroom available
Aid Station #3 – Restrooms available
What if I need to leave the course early?
If you finish your ride or leave the course before completing it, please check out at the finish-line registration table.
This helps event staff ensure all riders have safely returned.
If you do not check out, event staff may contact you to confirm your safety.
Is ride support available?
Yes. A support vehicle will be available throughout the event.
If you experience a mechanical issue, injury, or are unable to complete the ride, assistance is available.
For emergencies or ride support, contact:
Martin Coleman 865-250-3618
Jon Crowson 865-803-8616
Gabe "Moto" 912-492-2951
What happens after I finish?
Upon completing your ride, visit the registration table to receive:
Meal ticket
Beverage wristband
Grab-and-Go Lunches
If you need to leave early, please notify registration staff during Saturday check-in.
Grab-and-go lunches will be available beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Is there anything for kids and families?
Yes!
A free Bike Rodeo for youth ages 12 and under will be offered from 10:00 a.m. to Noon.
Activities include:
Bicycle safety instruction
Skills challenges
Practical maintenance demonstrations
Bike chain replacement demonstrations
A limited number of bicycle helmets will be distributed free of charge while supplies last.
When should riders return?
For rider safety and event operations, we ask all participants to return no later than 1:00 p.m.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing:
Helmet (required)
Water bottles
Sunscreen
Basic repair kit and spare tube
Cell phone
Identification
Weather-appropriate clothing
What can I do while visiting Cumberland Gap?
Make the most of your visit by exploring:
Places to See
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Pinnacle Overlook
Wilderness Trail
Gap Cave
Historic Downtown Cumberland Gap
Little Congress Bicycle Museum-
Norris Lake
Rustic River Kayaking and Tubing
Places to Eat
Angelo's in the Gap- sponsor
Local restaurants (Nineteen 19 Grill, Gap Creek Coffee House, Juice Spot in Historic Downtown Cumberland Gap, Frosty Mug Drive-In- Harrogate, Rustic River Restaurant- Tazewell, or Norris Lake Marinas- Twisted Pickle- Speedwell, Jmmy’s Place- Tazewell, Boathouse at 33- Maynardville
Stroll town, visit local shops, enjoy Appalachian hospitality, and take time to explore one of Tennessee's most historic mountain communities.
